There are many wonderful destinations to visit
in Thailand. Why include Koh Samui in your travel plans?

Not that long ago the island was a favorite
destination of adventure seeking sun worshipers. These savvy travelers visited
Samui long before it was in the guide books. Seaside bungalows were available
for as little as 150 baht per night, and you could count on spending day after
sunny day on the beach in nearly perfect tranquillity. These visitors found
there was an almost mesmerizingly restful and carefree feel to the island that
often kept them here long after they had intended to return home.

Those who have known and loved Samui since
those early days may not agree about the current pace of development in some
areas, but for the most part they do agree on one thing. The island retains its
sleepy magic. Koh Samui is still a paradise.

Tourist arrivals have been increasing steadily
in recent years. An impressive island-wide effort was undertaken in late 1999
and continues in early 2000 to improve the island's infrastructure to
accommodate these developments. Those who visited prior to 1999 will be
astonished at the number of newly paved and widened roads, drainage systems, and
perhaps most welcome; the addition of sidewalks in the bustling villages of
Chaweng and Lamai - home to many of the islands hotels, nightlife and shopping
areas.

However much of the island, especially the
south coast, remains largely undeveloped. A day spent on scooters or in a jeep
exploring this lush underbelly is a day of sheer serendipity. With its
spectacular and astonishingly diverse flora, and its dozy little neighborhoods
peopled by some of the world's most amiable islanders, this kind of exploration
is sure to provide the delights you imagined when you planned your holiday.

Short direct flights here now depart several
times a day from Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. You can also
arrive by train, bus and boat.